Culture: A Historic Love Letter

The lives of Henry and Anne have been dramatised many times

The letter, which has been hidden inthe Vaticanfor nearly 500 years, is to go on display at theBritish Libraryin London in April.

Henry wrote to Anne Boleyn, who would become his second wife, in January 1528, apologising to her for suggesting that she become hismistress.

In the letter Henry promises Anne that "henceforthmy heart will be dedicated to you alone", an assurance that contradicts Henry’swomanising reputation.

Henry continues, "The beautiful words of your letter are socordially phrased, that they really oblige me to honour, love, and serve you for ever."

Henry went on to marry Anne Boleyn afterdivorcinghis first wife, the Spanish princess Catherine of Aragon, but despite having written to Anne like alovesick schoolboy, Henry’s marriage to her ended badly.

Having failed to provide him with amale heir, Annefell from favourwith the king, whose chief minister had her charged withtreasonandadultery.

Anne was executed bybeheadingat the Tower of London in May 1536, leaving the way clear for Henry to marry his third wife Jane Seymour.

According tocontemporary witnessesAnne went to her death displayingqueenly dignity; on the morning of her execution she told her prison guard, "I heard say the executioner was very good, and I have a little neck."

Henry went on to be married a total of six times, divorcing twice and executing another wife, but in spite of all his efforts, Henry died without leaving a surviving male heir, a situation which resulted in thecoronationof Anne’s daughter, Queen Elizabeth I.